Top Things to do in Ballina
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What to do and see in Ballina, Western Ireland: The Best Hidden Gems Things to do
Discover the best top things to do in Ballina, Ireland including Belleek Castle Museum, Mount Falcon Falconry, The Iceford Stables, Connacht Whiskey Company, Claddagh Irish Tours, The North Mayo Heritage Centre, Rosserk Friary.
Restaurants in Ballina
1. Belleek Castle Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 231 reviews
Learn about the history of Belleek Castle & the story of its inhabitants the Knox-Gore family. Lean about the exciting life of Marshall Doran a sailor who made his fortune from smuggling & antique dealing who later became hotelier & restored Belleek Castle in the 1960's. Visitors will see the original Castle & Marshalls additions to the house such as the Spanish Armada Bar (built from salvaged wood from Spanish Armada shipwrecks) and the Medieval Banquet Hall,. The highlight of the tour will be the Marshall Doran Collection! One of the finest collections of antiques, Jurassic Fossils, Medieval weapons and Medieval Armour in Ireland! Other curiosities include the last wolf shot in Connaught & the bed of Grace O'Malley, Ireland's Pirate Queen.
Reviewed By sandramK8378SD
Went Nov. 2019, great tour, guide fantastically knowledgeable. Would be great for kids as well. Very interesting history. ????
2. Mount Falcon Falconry
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By TjeerdHoek - Haarlem, The Netherlands
We were fortunate to do the Hawk walk with falconer/bird caretaker Izabela who was simply amazing, showed great love and respect for the birds, and demonstrated an endearing way of interacting with the birds whilst providing us with a ton of information. The entire event was very up-close and personal - we did have a small group of just 3 people - and very different from a typical raptor/bird of prey show where you see the birds do tricks from a distance. We got to hold the birds - falcons, several different species of owls, and American hawks - on the glove regularly, pet them, feed them, and look them in the eye. It was absolutely spectacular. Izabela regularly encouraged questions or would check if we had been able to take enough photos, being a perfect and professional host whilst never losing sight of the birds. She was very clear about what was about to happen, explaining notable differences between the behaviors of the bird species, with clear instructions on how to behave and not startle the birds. We first spent a lot of time with the falcon, and different owls in the falconry itself, and then went for a walk through the woods with an American hawk, much as if we were out hunting as a pack with this majestic bird. she’d fly from branch to glove, and now and then run alongside us over the ground, looking exactly like a miniature velociraptor on the hunt. We were completely delighted getting so close to these beautiful birds, and very impressed with Izabela - looking smashing in her full falconer gear. We definitely recommend this unique treat to everyone!
3. The Iceford Stables
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By TeriY - Alberta, Canada
We stopped by the stables during our vacation around Ireland Aiden was very helpful and accommodating We were able to have a trek in the nearby area and it was marvellous for me , an experienced rider and my travel partner an inexperienced rider we both had an excellent time ! The horses were amazing Thank you so much!
4. Connacht Whiskey Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 132 reviews
We are an independently owned craft Irish whiskey distillery located in the town of Ballina, County Mayo Ireland. Situated in a beautiful setting across from the River Moy, the distillery offers guided tours, tastings, and a gift shop. You will learn how pot still Irish whiskey is made and get to enjoy a sampling of our products. The Visitor Centre is open Wednesday - Friday 10.30AM-18.00PM and Saturday's 12.00PM-17.00PM. The guided tours of the distillery are scheduled and run from Wednesday- Saturday at 12:00 PM, 13.30PM and 15:30 PM Booking online is necessary as we can only accomidate smaller groups due to the new governement restrictions. Please note our guided tours are running from August 1st please book online and read our new terms and conditions to avoid dissapointment. You will be asked to full out a health declartion and travel form for the past 14days on arrival, your co-operation at this time is appreciated. Please wear a mask or purchase one on arrival.
Reviewed By D9448DDdenisec - Ballina, Ireland
This tour is well worth a visit,we went as a family for a birthday treat,although the tour itself takes place in only one room is extremely interesting and informative,the lady conducting the tour was really good at her job,after the tour it was time for the taste testing,which again was very interesting,we have been on many of these tours and never experienced this type of tasting session before,really good, very relaxed ,would definitely recommend a visit
5. Claddagh Irish Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 46 reviews
Irish Group Travel is a family run Irish Tour Company specialising in escorted tours of Ireland . We deliver a customised chauffeur driven touring experience. Driver / Guide with expert knowledge of the history of Ireland We cover Southern and Northern Ireland & Scotland. We cater for small groups of 2 people up to large groups of 50+. Choose one of our itineraries, or let us design the perfect Irish experience for you. We build your tour to your exact requirements and the particular interests of your group. From iconic sites in Ireland to the many stunning Castles, local history to your own family history if desired, spiritual locations, and breathtaking gardens, off shore islands and the best of Irish Golf and the Wild Atlantic Way. Great Irish music and dance, to the best local cuisine. The choice is yours. Huge choice of accommodation for the family welcome of a B&B to a five star Hotel. Price to suit every budget.
6. The North Mayo Heritage Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Located within the curtilage of Enniscoe House is the North Mayo Heritage Centre. The centre is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the region. It includes a Family History Research Unit, which provides a genealogy service for clients all over the world. The centre also has a small museum of unique domestic and agricultural artifacts from North Mayo, an exhibition area and a Victorian 3 acre walled organic garden. In addition, there are a number of looped walks around the woods of Enniscoe and an ornamental garden to enjoy. If you wish to find out more or have a question, please click on the link to our website.
7. Rosserk Friary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 93 reviews
Reviewed By spinellae
Amazingly quiet area with fantastic views of the lake. The friary is beautiful, very peaceful atmosphere.
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